Lights, Camera, Hydration: Students Can Win $1,500 in Scholarships in ACWD's 7th Annual Video Contest

Fremont, Calif. – Local students in grades 6 -12 are invited to turn their creativity into academic support in the Alameda County Water District’s 7th annual WaterClips Student Video Contest. The District will award more than $1,500 in scholarships to Tri-City area students for winning 30-second videos that show how ACWD water influences, inspires or supports physical health and wellness.

Winners will be honored at a special awards ceremony and reception at the Fremont Downtown Events Center, receive a free movie ticket and see their videos featured on the big screen at local movie theaters before select films. Entries are being accepted now through March 13, 2026.

This year’s theme challenges students - working individually or in teams - to share their unique perspectives on water’s role in supporting physical health and wellness. Creative entries may highlight everything from workouts to wind-downs, demonstrating how water plays an important role in students’ wellbeing.

"The WaterClips Student Video Contest gives students a fun and creative way to show how water plays a role in their everyday lives - whether it’s keeping them hydrated for sports and activities, fueling their favorite meals, supporting self-care, or boosting their mood," said ACWD Board President Judy Huang. "Beyond showcasing creativity, this contest is a key part of our water education program, helping students understand the importance of water in sustaining health, wellness and our community."

Teachers can win, too! ACWD will award classroom scholarships to teachers in both groups sponsoring the most student submissions or the winning videos.

A panel of judges of local professionals from various industries, including government, media, non-profit organizations and environmental agencies, will evaluate student entries in grades 6-8 and grades 9-12. ACWD will award winning students from both groups with six scholarships worth $500, $250 and $100. Students can enter the contest as an individual participant or submit a group entry.

"Seeing students return each year with fresh and imaginative entries highlights the contest’s value. Now in its seventh year, we’re seeing repeat students and their siblings," said Huang. "It’s a unique opportunity for students to showcase their digital skills while deepening their understanding of important water topics. We’re thankful for the continued support of our partner schools and their commitment to water education."

For more information about the WaterClips Student Video Contest, visit acwd.org/waterclips or email waterclips@acwd.com.

Since 1914, the Alameda County Water District has supplied water to the residents and businesses of southern Alameda County. ACWD supplies drinking water to the 348,000 people living in the cities of Fremont, Newark and Union City. For more information, please visit www.acwd.org.